Balzac’s Coffee Roastery set to open this April

An independent coffee house is bringing an old-school twist to Ryerson’s Image Arts building, as Balzac’s Coffee Roastery is set to open this April.

Beating out big-name coffee houses like Starbucks for the spot, Ryerson’s version won’t likely have a huge chandelier like its original Distillery District counterpart, but Julia Hanigsberg, VP administration and finance, said that Balzac’s is still responsible for its own decor.

Its designers will aim to uphold the cafés cozy and rustic feel and a patio section on Gould Street will be incorporated in the design.

Hanigsberg also said that Balzac’s will accept OneCard payments and that students will be able to apply for jobs at the coffee house when it opens. Fourth-year film major Elaine Poon is excited for a Tim Hortons alternative on campus.

“I love the [Balzac’s] at the Distillery and I hope that the interior of ours is going to look just as great,” she said.

Balzac’s has only five other locations in Ontario, and first gained a name amongst Torontonians for the rustic furniture and homey ambiance of its downtown Distillery District location.

“I felt that we fit because we are local, have strong ties with the art and creative community of Toronto,” said Diana Olsen, President of Balzac’s to The Eyeopener last month.

The coffee house which has their own roastery located in Stoney Creek, Ont., will offer coffee and espresso beverages along with a small collection of sandwiches and pastries.